News

Date

Written By

“Does oil pulling actually pull toxins from your teeth? I can’t find any science that proves oil pulling actually detoxes your mouth, just testimony.” These are questions you may be asking when you are researching if oil pulling actually works. In this post we will breakdown the history of oil pulling and how it is proven to give you whiter teeth in 14 days.

Oil Pulling 101

Oil pulling was only introduced to the Western world about 20 years ago. The method is a growing trend that has seen hundreds if not thousands of testimonials from individuals boasting glowing skin, healthier hearts, and of course whiter teeth. See some of those testimonials below:

If you don’t already know, oil pulling is a 3,000 year old Ayurveda practice that involves swishing a tablespoon of oil (sesame, coconut, or sunflower oil) in your mouth for about 20 minutes. The practice has historically been used as a method to detoxify the mouth and cleanse the teeth and gums.

The Science Behind Oil Pulling

During the swishing process, the oil mixes with saliva, and collectively work to reach tight places where bacteria hides. Oils, such as those with antibacterial properties like coconut oil, then bind to plaque and trap it inside of a thick liquid. This liquid is full of toxins and fats and are removed when the oil is spit out. Be sure NOT TO SWALLOW the oil as this will lead to a reabsorption of toxins.

Although the method has received mixed reviews from the Journal of Oral Health and Community Dentistry the positive results are all similar. Subjects with mild to moderate gum disease and significate plaque buildup were given instructions to introduce oil pulling into their daily routine. After 45 days, the plaque formation in the majority of subjects was significantly reduced. The rate of Gingivitis was also reduced by more than 50 percent in all subjects that added this nifty method to their daily brushing routines.

Steps to Oil Pulling

Step 1: Livecoco Oil Pulling

You can go to any grocery store and find natural coconut oil in the oil section, or you can order a convenient travel friendly kit such as the one we offer here at Livecoco. The taste of pure coconut oil may be overwhelming for some individuals, so we add a drop of mint to give oil pullers a pleasant experience. Take 1-3 teaspoons (or one-tube) of coconut oil and place it in your mouth.

Step 2: Swish for 20 Minutes

With the oil in your mouth, swish it back in forth for 15-20 minutes. You should notice the liquid get thicker about halfway through your routine. If you feel overwhelmed, spit a little (not all) of the liquid out and continue to swish it around in your mouth. Remember this liquid is grabbing all of those horrible toxins!

Step 3: Spit Out the Oil and Brush Your Teeth

After 20 minutes, spit out the oil in your mouth. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water then brush your teeth naturally. Many people report seeing their teeth become a few shades whiter after their very first time oil pulling! Repeat the process daily and after 14 days you should start seeing significant results.

Date

Written By

Oral health and dental hygiene has become a hot topic recently with the increasing reports of tooth decay and gum disease featured in the media. This explains why we go above and beyond to purchase and try products that can help improve our oral health and prevent bad breath. One of these ways that has only recently been gaining widespread attention is oil pulling.

So you search online for answers about the old Ayurvedic tradition and discover testimonials proving the method is the real deal. You read that oil pulling will give you whiter teeth, reduce plaque, and prevent bacteria buildup, but you’re still skeptical. One of the questions everyone has is: Does oil pulling actually work? Well to answer that, we have to understand what oil pulling actually is.

WHAT IN THE WORLD IS OIL PULLING?

Oil pulling is actually an ancient method of rinsing the mouth, where you swish some natural, organic oil around your mouth for 10-20 minutes. Its an old Ayurvedic tradition that is used to detoxify the mouth and whiten teeth. In ancient times, people did not have the luxury of toothbrushes and toothpastes, this was one of the several means they adopted in order to keep their canines and molars strong and healthy.

TYPES OF OIL PULLING

Oil pulling can be performed using a variety of natural oils- traditional ones include sesame or butter oil and contemporary means have seen people substituting these for sunflower and olive oil.

Yet, according to a research conducted in the Athlone Institute of Technology in Ireland, coconut oil is the best option to combat tooth decay and get a whiter shade of teeth (It happens to be our favorite type of oil as well!). What makes coconut oil so unique is that it is the only oil that has the ability to prevent growth of Streptococcus mutans, a bacterium that is the primary cause of enamel damage and tooth decay. It works at low concentrations and has thus become the perfect agent to battle and prevent bad breath and reduce plaque.

DOES OIL PULLING ACTUALLY WORK?

When it comes to oil pulling, not everyone seems quite sold on the idea. People tend to be afraid that they’ll end up wasting their money on a product that won’t give them the results they are looking for. But fear not; the reason its hard for you to find answers is because the concept of oil pulling has only recently gained mass recognition. Studies have made their way to the surface suggesting that oil pulling is, in fact, a highly effective and healthy method of ensuring first-rate oral health.

The oil draws or ‘pulls’ out the bad bacteria and toxins that have found solace in your gums and salivary glands and prevents plaque deterioration, subsequently whitening the teeth, reducing bad breath and preventing a hoard of oral problems such as cavities and gingivitis. It essentially acts like a magnet.

SHOULD I TRY IT?

Yes! If you are someone who wishes to have a perfect set of pearly whites using a 100% natural method to whitening teeth, then you should certainly try oil pulling. Try it for 14 days and see the results for yourself. Once you start seeing your teeth get whiter, you will surely become a regular oil puller yourself!

Date

September 08 2016

Written By

Did you know there could be a super food lying around in your very own kitchen? The health benefits of coconut oil are well documented which makes it the perfect ingredient to add to your everyday life! But the benefits of coconut oil are vast. Other than being a great cure for soothing dry hands, companies such as Sephora have used coconut oil as a base ingredient in their organic and natural makeup formulas for years! Women have been using this beautifying agent to achieve soft supple skin and glossy hair, but it has a lot more to offer us. This pearly white fat remains solid at room temperature and has a relatively good shelf life. From bulletproof coffee to coconut smoothies, it has seeped into the diets of many health experts who swear by its natural goodness and rightfully so!

A tremendous weight loss supplement: While it consists of 90% saturated fat, coconut oil has been hailed as a good kind of saturated fat. The high level of medium fatty acid chains inside make it an ideal health choice that lowers cholesterol and gives you a satiating effect that prevents you from overeating. It is also immediately processed by the liver to convert to energy, hence prevents storage of excess fats.

Glowing skin and shiny hair: Coconut oil is used traditionally in many cultures to prime the skin and make the hair more glowing. It works deep down into the skin to provide nourishment and the skin-friendly lipids overcome the effects of dryness and eczema.

Sparkling teeth whitener: Coconut oil has often been used in oil pulling where it helps leach out impurities and bacteria to promote healthy gums. It also helps gets rid of yellow stains that are caused by caffeine and smoking. If you are looking to get whiter, cleaner teeth, consider investing in a quality oil pulling kit.

Perfect for cooking: Coconut oil does not go bad when heated and hence makes a perfect solution to stir fry vegetables and add a little flavor to your recipes. It is highly preferred in Thai food and imparts that nutty flavor to enhance the taste. Many international cuisines rely on coconut oil for that perfect blend of flavor that is savory as well as aromatic.

Great makeup remover: Coconut oil is a perfect makeup remover that gets rid of dirt and stubborn makeup without being harsh on the skin as some removers are. It cleans pores deep down so no sudden pimples erupt.

Coconut oil is a common ingredient found in almost all kitchens and can do wonders for your skin. Its rich taste and numerous benefits have made it a popular choice among chefs and fitness experts. It’s not only cost-effective but can also help you manage your overall weight, improve the condition of your skin, remove impurities and refresh your skin deep into the pores. Virgin cold-pressed coconut oil is some of the purest and finest quality of coconut oil available in the markets, and most health stores. So what are you waiting for? Go grab yours today!

Date

Written By

The coconut has amazing benefits both inside and out, and there are plenty of health benefits associated with it.

Water from a young coconut is not only a refreshing drink, but also a very healthy one. Coconut water is a good source of electrolytes including potassium, sodium and other minerals and vitamins, such as vitamin C. The white flesh of a coconut contains a high level of potassium and manganese (and tastes great in deserts!).

Coconut Oil Health Benefits

Heart health

Heart disease is one of the leading causes of death in the US, a problem that is almost non-existent in Polynesia and Sri Lanka, where coconut is a dietary staple. Studies have shown that the people in these areas do not suffer from heart disease or high serum cholesterol, even though coconuts contain a large amount of fatty acid. The fatty acid contained in coconuts is lauric acid, and it actively prevents heart problems. Lauric acid is a healthy source of fatty acid! Yes, healthy fats!

Moreover, coconut oil does not increase LDL levels, effectively preventing arteries from injury and damage, which reduces the risk of atherosclerosis.

Strengthens the immune system

Coconut oil also contains capric acid, antimicrobial lipids, and caprylic acid, all of which are antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral. When lauric acid is converted to monolaurin by the human body, it also becomes an effective way to deal with bacteria and viruses, including HIV.

Promotes better digestion

Coconut oil health benefits multiply when used as cooking oil, as it can improve the digestive system and protect against indigestion, due to the saturated fats that have antimicrobial properties. No need to worry about parasites, bacteria and fungi that can wreak havoc in your digestive system when coconut oil is part of your diet!

Skin and hair care

Coconut oil is used in making cosmetics, soaps, hair oil and massage oil, so you know it's safe to use whether it is in a raw or processed form. On the skin, it works as a moisturizer and a cure for a wide range of skin problems, from dermatitis to premature aging. It can also slow down aging, because of its antioxidant properties.

One of the reasons that coconut oil is extensively used for hair care in the Indian sub-continent, is its ability to reduce protein loss, which causes hair damage. It also helps moisturize the scalp preventing dandruff and protects the hair from hygral fatigue.

Coconut oil is also used for oil pulling, which is done to detoxify the mouth and whiten teeth. As an old Ayurvedic tradition passed down generations, you know it works!

Date

July 22 2016

Written By

Coconut oil pulling has become popular in the recent years because it has been endorsed by celebrities (such as Kylie Jenner, Gwyneth Paltrow & Linsday Lohan!) as well as health and beauty experts. However, it's actually an ancient Ayurvedic tradition that has been around for hundreds of years and has been practised by numerous people.

The reason why the practice of oil pulling has lasted for centuries is that it's highly effective. It can detox your mouth and reduce plaque & bacteria, which can lead to healthier gums, stronger teeth, and fresher breath. It also removes stains which whitens your teeth and ensure you have a dazzling smile.

But here's the thing: you shouldn't just purchase the first products that you come across with. To ensure you'll get great value for money, you need to find a coconut oil pulling kit that:

Contains natural ingredients

You don't want to use products that contain harsh substances that can irritate your mouth. So, before buying anything, check the ingredients of the oil pulling kit that you want to use. It should be made of virgin cold pressed coconut oil and not processed oil, and it must have as few ingredients as possible. There's really no need for the kit to have a long list of ingredients since coconut oil is enough to carry out effective oil pulling (it just won’t taste great as coconut oil itself can be bitter tasting).

Another thing you should check is the presence of alcohol, which is fine in mouthwashes but isn't really necessary for oil pulling kits. In fact, it should be avoided since it can leave your mouth dry, so look for an oil pulling kit that's alcohol-free.

Matches your dietary principles

Even though you shouldn't swallow when oil pulling, you will still be swishing and swirling oil around your mouth. Because of this, you have to make sure that the product is compatible with your dietary needs and preferences. If you have gluten intolerance, for example, look for an oil pulling kit that's gluten-free. If you're a vegan or are planning to be one, find a kit that's vegan-friendly.

Tastes great!

Technically, there's nothing wrong with using plain coconut oil for oil pulling, but take note that this can leave a bitter taste in your mouth. If you're not up for it, look for an oil pulling kit that has a flavour that you like. Here at LiveCoco, for instance, we add natural mint flavouring to our kit to reduce the bitter taste and make oil pulling a more pleasant experience for you.

Is available in convenient packaging

If you're always on the go, look for oil pulling kits that come in small, portable packaging. LiveCoco kits, for example, have 14 10mL tubes that you can easily stash in your bag and use virtually anywhere. So, if you're going on a business trip and staying in a hotel, or if you just want to freshen up your breath at work, just open one of the tubes and enjoy a great oil pulling experience ASAP.

These are just some of the factors you should consider when shopping for an oil pulling kit. If you're ready to buy one, look no further than LiveCoco! Our coconut oil pulling kits tick all the boxes on the list and can help you have better oral health and a whiter, more attractive smile.